New ambassador appointed for Thessaloniki film platform

Christopher Papakaliatis has been named the new ambassador of the Agora, the industry platform of the Thessaloniki International Film Festival. The festival is currently celebrating its 67th edition, running from 5 to 15 November.

Agora offers networking and co-production opportunities

The Agora, supported by the Creative Europe-MEDIA programme, provides networking and co-production opportunities for professionals from Southeastern Europe, the Mediterranean and beyond. Activities will take place both in person and online from 6 to 14 November.

Papakaliatis’ film career and achievements

Papakaliatis, a Greek actor, screenwriter, and director, has had a diverse career in film. His feature debut, What If…, was released in 2012, followed by Worlds Apart, which starred JK Simmons and became one of the decade’s biggest Greek box-office successes.

Netflix acquisition and new project

In 2022, Papakaliatis created Maestro in Blue, the first Greek series acquired by Netflix for worldwide distribution. Its final season is set to premiere globally on the platform in December. He is currently working on a new feature film, in which he will serve as writer, director, and actor.

Leadership changes in the Agora

The Agora has announced changes to its leadership structure. Thanos Stavropoulos, who previously worked with the festival’s international programme and coordinated the Agora, is now head of the festival’s development department.

New roles for former Agora head

Angeliki Vergou, the former head of the Agora, has taken on the role of advisor for international collaborations and development. The Agora is also expanding its “Bridge to” initiative through a partnership with AUSTRIAN FILMS, making Austria this year’s guest country.

Austrian collaboration and film projects

Launched in 2023, the “Bridge to” initiative connects the region with countries in Northern Europe and now extends to Central Europe. An Austrian project has been selected for Works in Progress, and two emerging directors from Austria will participate in the Short Film Lab.

Crossroads Co-production Forum highlights

The 22nd edition of the Crossroads Co-production Forum, the Agora’s main feature-film development platform, will run from 8 to 12 November. It will bring together 14 projects from 15 countries and include FOCUS sessions to support Greek projects with international professionals.

Agora Works in Progress showcases films

Agora Works in Progress (8–12 November) will present 11 films in post-production from Central and Southeastern Europe and the Mediterranean. The Agora Series will return with a three-day programme featuring masterclasses, professional discussions, and networking events.

Masterclasses by notable figures

The masterclasses, open to the public, will be led by Tom Rob Smith, author of Child 44 and screenwriter of The Assassination of Gianni Versace from American Crime Story, and György Baráthy, who adapted In Treatment for Hungarian audiences.

Agora Series Talents programme

The Agora Series Talents initiative will bring back a development and networking programme for emerging and established screenwriters based in Greece. Six participants will take part in workshops and meetings under the mentorship of Dutch producer Fleur Winters.